The new research shows that the intensity of the exercise changes your intestine surprisingly

The intensity of the exercise affects the intestinal microbiome, changing bacteria and intestinal health markers. Diet and rest models also contribute to these changes.

The exercise is widely known in favor of mental and physical health, but the new results of the Edith Cowan University (ECU) suggest that the intensity of training can also influence the intestinal microbiome.

The bronwen doctoral student Charlesson conducted a study examining how different training charges, both high and low, affect the intestinal health of athletes. His goal was to better understand these changes so that athletes can optimize their health, well-being and performance considering the role of the microbiome.

“Based on previous research, it seems that athletes have a different intestinal microbiota compared to the general population. acid The concentrations, alpha diversity, an increased abundance of certain bacteria and a lower abundance of others, “she explained.

Charlesson added that the distinction between microbiomas of athletes and those of non-athletes could be influenced by eating habits, but fitness indicators such as oxygen absorption have also been linked to these differences.

Training load and bacterial work quarters

His research has shown that training intensity directly affected intestinal health markers in athletes. Variations have been observed in short -chain fatty acid levels and in specific bacteria populations.

Although it is not officially measured in this study, Charlesson underlined a high blood lactate of the high intensity exercise as a possible contributor. The lactate produced in the muscles is transported to the intestine for metabolism, which can promote the growth of certain bacterials species.

Ms. Charlesson noted that the changes found in the intestinal bioma when comparing high training charges with low training costs, were also linked to the diet.

Regime changes during rest periods

“During low training times, or rest periods, athletes are often more relaxed in their diet, in this study, we have not seen any change in the total consumption of carbohydrates or fibers during periods of rest, but we observed a decline in the quality of the food of the food consumed. This decline was linked to an increase in processed fasting products, a decrease in moderate fruits and vegetables.

“Another observation made during research has been the significant slowdown in intestinal transit times in athletes during low training charges. This slowdown in transit time during the low drive load also seems to have an impact on the intestinal microbiome for an athlete.”

Ms. Charlesson explained that even if it is not clear exactly how the intestine influences sports performance, there are promising clues. For example, the intestine can play a role in the metabolism of lactate and the regulation of pH levels, which could have an impact on the performance and overall health of athletes. However, more research is necessary, in particular in factors such as training load, food quality and intestinal transit time, to better understand how these elements can be adjusted to improve sports performance.

Reference: “The drive load influences the intestinal microbiome of highly trained rowing athletes” by B. Charlesson, J. Jones, C. Abbiss, P. Peelling, S. Watts and CT Christophersen, May 21, 2025, Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.
DOI: 10.1080 / 15502783.2025.2507952

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